Boating deaths dropped in 2007

Marine-related fatalities declined last year, according to a report by the National Transportation Safety Board.

The report shows that transportation fatalities in the United States decreased by 4 percent in 2007 over 2006, according to preliminary figures.

Fatalities in all modes totaled 43,193 in 2007, compared to 45,085 in 2006. Highway, marine, aviation and pipeline deaths declined, while rail fatalities showed an increase.

Marine deaths dropped from 800 to 766, with the majority — 685 — in recreational boating. However, the 685 recreational boating fatalities were down from 710 in 2006. Other marine categories, including cargo transport and commercial fishing, remained nearly unchanged, although commercial passenger vessels showed a slight increase.